In a dramatic turn of events at the Supreme Court, the bench led by Justice Abhay S Oka addressed a dispute involving two high-ranking civil servants, IAS officer Rohini Sindhuri and IPS officer D Roopa Moudgil, prompting a call for administrative harmony and a swift resolution to their public feud.
A public dispute unfolded between IAS Sindhuri and IPS Roopa, with allegations of the unauthorized release of sensitive photographs and videos of IAS Sindhuri. Additionally, accusations were made by IPS Roopa, claiming unethical behavior on the part of IAS Sindhuri.
The bench expressed its dismay at the lack of agreement on mediation, which had been offered the previous day. Justice Oka emphasized the need for a resolution, stating, “If IAS, IPS officers continue to fight like this and refuse mediation, this must come to an end. How will the administration work?”
IAS Sindhuri expressed her concern over the involvement of her family in the controversy, stating, “How can she bring my family into this? My 10-year-old son is asking me. Complete character assassination.”
The Supreme Court, unswayed by emotional arguments, directed D. Roopa to delete alleged defamatory posts from social media platforms within 24 hours and issue an apology. The court highlighted that the trial is in its early stages, and actions must be taken in the interest of both the civil servants.
IAS Sindhuri detailed her grievances, claiming that IPS Roopa had verbally abused her on a recent flight and sent derogatory texts to her parents. Ms. Sindhuri further alleged that Ms. Roopa had linked her with male officers, damaging her reputation.
Justice Oka urged both parties to demonstrate their bonafide, emphasizing, “We are on administration of the State. Both must understand in this court there is no place for emotions.”
The court questioned Roopa’s involvement in investigating Sindhuri, stating, “You are an IPS officer. How are you concerned with allegations made against someone else being probed by someone else?”
IPS Roopa, in response, accused IAS Sindhuri of sending inappropriate pictures to male bureaucrats, prompting the court to reiterate its focus on the administration of the state and emphasize that emotions have no place in the courtroom.
